07747, Matawan, New Jersey Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 07747, Matawan, New Jersey is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.75 percent of residents in 07747 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayshore Medical Center with a distance of 1.66 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Matawan, NJ (ZIP Code 07747)

Moving to Matawan, New Jersey, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the Jersey Shore. However, for individuals grappling with or at risk of lung cancer, the crucial factor becomes **healthcare access**. This write-up delves into the **transportation** landscape surrounding ZIP code 07747, assessing the ease of reaching vital medical facilities for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. We’ll analyze drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to determine a "Lung Cancer Score" – a practical gauge of how readily residents can access the healthcare they need.

The foundation of our assessment rests on understanding the primary healthcare destinations for lung cancer patients in this region. These include major hospitals with oncology departments, specialized cancer centers, and pulmonology practices. We’ll consider facilities like Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel, Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, and the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey (CINJ) in New Brunswick. The goal is to understand how easily patients can get to these places.

Driving remains a dominant mode of **transportation** in Matawan. The primary artery connecting Matawan to the broader region is the Garden State Parkway. Accessing the Parkway from Matawan is generally straightforward, via ramps at Exit 117. Heading south on the Parkway provides direct access to Bayshore Medical Center, typically a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. Northbound, the Parkway leads to Jersey Shore University Medical Center, a drive that can range from 25-40 minutes, influenced by rush hour congestion.

Route 35, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers another driving option. While often congested, it provides direct access to many medical practices and local hospitals. Route 35 also connects to Route 36, which provides another route to the Jersey Shore area hospitals. Navigating these roads requires awareness of peak traffic times.

For access to the Rutgers Cancer Institute in New Brunswick, patients typically utilize the Garden State Parkway to the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95). This route can take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The Turnpike, while efficient, can be prone to delays, particularly during weekday commutes.

Public transit offers an alternative, though its effectiveness varies. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service through the area. The 67 bus route, for instance, serves Matawan, connecting to key towns and transit hubs. However, bus routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, often requiring transfers and longer travel times. ADA accessibility on NJT buses is generally good, with ramps and designated seating.

The NJT train system, specifically the North Jersey Coast Line, offers another option. The Matawan station provides access to trains heading north and south. While the train offers a potentially faster commute to some destinations, it may still require a transfer to a bus or ride-share service to reach the final medical destination. Train schedules and frequency must be considered, especially for appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in Matawan. These services offer a convenient option, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of rides can also fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services provide a specialized solution for patients requiring assistance. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel. While offering peace of mind, medical transport services can be costly and may require advance booking. Companies like SeniorCare Transportation and American Medical Response are common providers in the area.

The "Lung Cancer Score" considers these factors. A high score indicates excellent **healthcare access**, reflecting short drive times, efficient public transit, and readily available ride-sharing or medical transport. A lower score indicates challenges, such as longer commutes, limited public transit options, and potential reliance on expensive or less reliable **transportation** methods.

Considering the factors, Matawan offers a moderate Lung Cancer Score. The proximity to the Garden State Parkway and Route 35 provides reasonable driving access to several hospitals. However, reliance on driving introduces the possibility of traffic delays. Public transit, while available, can be time-consuming and may not offer direct routes to all medical facilities. Ride-sharing and medical transport provide alternatives, but at a potential cost.

For individuals considering **moving to Matawan**, this assessment highlights the importance of considering **healthcare access** in their decision-making. While the community offers desirable qualities, the ease of reaching medical facilities is paramount for those with or at risk of lung cancer. Thoroughly investigating the specific medical needs and the associated **transportation** options is crucial.

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating the practicality of accessing healthcare in Matawan, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The score is not a fixed number but a dynamic assessment, influenced by individual needs, medical requirements, and the evolving landscape of **transportation** options.